80+ Car Sales Text Message Templates That Drive Results

A large part of selling cars has always been about perfecting the timing and connection. That means catching the right buyer with the right offer before they get distracted by competing sellers.

You can form this connection through a simple, well-timed, carefully composed text message. Customers want quick answers, easy reminders, and straightforward updates, and dealerships need a way to deliver that without slipping into spammy behavior.

That’s where having a ready set of well-crafted, pre-approved templates comes in. Instead of scrambling to write each message from scratch, auto dealers can focus on conversations that actually move potential buyers closer to a decision.

In this article, we’ll share a comprehensive collection of car sales text message templates designed to help dealerships engage prospects, build trust, and close more deals efficiently.

Why car dealerships should use text message marketing

Text message marketing gives car dealerships a significant advantage because it meets buyers exactly where they are: on their phones. Many car buyers conduct their research and compare their choices via mobile, so SMS can easily become a natural part of their journey.

According to a recent article by SAP Emarsys, over 95% of texts are read within minutes, unlike emails, which can sit unopened indefinitely. The same article also mentions that SMS response rates can be up to eight times higher than email. They are super easy to reply to, after all. A simple “yes” can confirm a test drive on the spot. This speed matters, especially since prospects often contact several dealerships at once. Being the first to reply can help seal the deal.

Beyond lead conversion, reliable delivery through a platform like Messente can also prevent lost opportunities. It can ensure that important sales texts for financing, test drives, or paperwork updates actually reach customers. Text messages are also effective for confirmations and reminders, reducing no-shows, and they support the full sales cycle, from initial inquiry to after-sales follow-up messages.

Best practices for car sales texts (before you copy templates)

Before diving into our ready-to-use car sales text message templates, it’s worth taking a step back and looking at what makes a sales text effective in the first place. Even the best-written message can fall flat if it’s poorly timed, overly generic, or non-compliant.

Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

• Keep it short and clear. Stick to 160 characters or fewer, which is both the SMS character limit and ideal for the generally shrinking attention spans. Check your SMS length, if you must, before you send it.
  

  

• Personalize your messages by name, interest, or other unique factors. Something like “Hi Alex, your Toyota Corolla is ready for a test drive” would be far more engaging than a generic blast.

• Always include opt-out methods. A quick “Reply STOP to unsubscribe” maintains compliance and builds trust.

• Schedule service reminders, inspection dates, or other important meetings so they’re not missed accidentally.

• Timing is crucial. For instance, you may be better off sending service reminders in the morning and scheduling promotions for the afternoon or evening when buyers are more likely to be browsing.

• Build a sense of urgency, but make sure it doesn’t get too overwhelming. Phrases like “selling fast” can prompt quick action, but overdoing it can destroy your credibility.

• Clarity takes priority over cleverness or humor. Direct, actionable texts convert better than vague messages that don’t really give a lot of concrete details and keep the recipient guessing or leave them hanging.

• Avoid over-messaging. One to two texts a week is a healthy balance, but then again, it also really depends on what you’re texting for. Car dealerships are generally not someplace customers would want to hear from every day. Daily messages could also needlessly pressure customers, especially those actively looking to buy. Buying a car can be a big decision for many people, who would surely want to take their time researching and thinking things over before making the final call.

• Test multiple templates to see which offers drive responses.

• Review delivery reports and analytics to ensure that your campaigns are not being affected by any technical problems.
  

  

• Segment your audience, e.g., you can separate prospects, active buyers, and past customers for more relevant messaging. Templates are especially useful for this purpose.
  

  

• Always adhere to local regulations. Compliance isn’t optional, especially when operating across different regions.

Impactful car sales text message templates ready for your use

Crafting the right message can feel like a chore, especially when you’re juggling leads, test drives, financing, and service follow-ups all at once. It can be especially tough to come up with something catchy at the last minute.

To make things easier for you, we’ve put together over 80 ready-to-use car sales SMS marketing templates. Each one is designed to fit a specific stage of the customer journey, so you can focus on closing deals instead of drafting texts from scratch.

Lead follow-up templates

Following up with leads is where your car dealership can either win or lose a sale. Whether it’s responding to fresh website inquiries, re-engaging cold leads, or nudging someone toward a quick callback, having ready-to-go templates keeps the process consistent and efficient.

1. “Hi [Name], thanks for checking out the [Car Model] on our site. Would you like to schedule a test drive this week?”

2. “This is [Dealer] from [Dealership]. I noticed your interest in the [Car Model]. Can I answer any questions for you today?”

3. “Hi [Name], the [Car Model] you viewed online is available now. Reply YES if you’d like details on financing or a test drive.”

4. “Still searching for your dream car? We’ve had new arrivals, including [Model]. Interested in taking a look?”

5. “We haven’t heard back from you, but the [Car Model] you asked about is still available. Want me to hold it for you?”

6. “Can I give you a quick call about the [Car Model] you’re interested in? Reply YES and I’ll ring you at your convenience.”

7. “Hi [Name], I’d love to walk you through our current offers on [Car Model]. Is now a good time for a call?”

8. “Need details faster? Reply CALL and I’ll reach out right away.”

Test drive invitations

Test drives are one of the strongest conversion points in car sales. Once a customer is behind the wheel, they’re far more likely to move forward with a purchase. Well-timed texts can help dealerships fill up more slots and convert those test runs into confirmed sales.

Invites

9. “Hi [Name], your requested [Car Model] is available for a test drive this week. What day works best for you?”

10. “Great news, [Name]! The [Car Model] you asked about is ready to drive. Reply YES to book your slot.”

11. “Experience the new [Car Model] today. Would you like us to reserve a test drive for you?”

Reminders

12. “Reminder: Your test drive for the [Car Model] is tomorrow at [Time]. Reply C to confirm or R to reschedule.”

13. “Looking forward to seeing you at [Dealership] today for your [Car Model] test drive at [Time].”

No-show recovery

14. “We missed you at your test drive today, [Name]. Want to pick a new time that works better? [URL]”

15. “Sorry we didn’t catch you earlier. Would you like to reschedule your [Car Model] test drive this week?”

New vehicle announcements

The launch of a new vehicle is an opportune time to re-engage past buyers and cause a proper stir among fresh leads. These messages work best when they highlight urgency, exclusivity, or special availability.

16. “The new [Car Model] has arrived at [Dealership]. Be the first to test drive it. Reply YES.”

17. “Hi [Name], the [Car Model] you asked about is finally here! Schedule a viewing today.”

18. “Exclusive offer: Be among the first 10 buyers of the [Car Model] and get free servicing for a year.”

19. “Fresh off the truck! Visit [Dealership] today and see the brand-new [Car Model].”

20. “Looking for a new vehicle? The 2025 lineup is now available. Reply INFO for more details.”

21. “VIP customers get first dibs! Check out the new [Car Model] before our public launch. Reply JOIN.”

With Messente, bulk announcements can be sent through SMS, Viber, or WhatsApp at once, and rich messaging allows dealerships to share images, videos, or brochures that make the new model stand out.

Promotions and limited-time offers

Promotional texts are a powerful way for car dealerships to spark interest and boost showroom traffic. Whether it’s a seasonal campaign, a short-lived flash sale, or an exclusive loyalty reward, these messages work best when they’re clear, time-bound, and give customers a reason to act quickly.

Here are some text templates tailored for different types of offers:

Seasonal offers

22. “Holiday special: 0% financing on select models until Dec 31 at [Dealership]. Book an in-store visit today.”

23. “Kick off summer with hot deals: Up to [$Amount] off new vehicles this month only.”

24. “New year, new car! Trade in your old vehicle for bonus credit until [Date].”

Flash sales

25. “3-day clearance on [Car Model]. Only 5 left in stock! Reply HOLD to reserve yours.”

26. “Limited stock alert: [$Amount] off [Car Model] today only.”

27. “Weekend flash sale: Drive home a [Car Model] with zero down payment. Ends Sunday.”

Loyalty programs and referral rewards

28. “Thanks for being a valued customer! Get [$Amount] loyalty cash toward your next vehicle at [Dealership].”

29. “Exclusive for returning buyers: Free extended warranty on your next car purchase.”

30. “Know someone looking for a new car? Refer them to [Dealership] and earn a [$Amount] service credit.”

31. “Bring a friend to test drive at [Dealership]. If they buy, you get a [$Amount] reward.”

32. “Share the joy! Refer a buyer and receive free detailing for a year.”

Trade-in promotions

33. “This month only: We’ll pay above market value for your trade-in. Upgrade to a [Car Model] today.”

34. “Thinking of selling your car? Bring it to [Dealership] for a free appraisal and exclusive trade-in bonus.”

35. “Trade in your [Current Model] and save [$Amount] on a new [Car Model]. Offer ends soon.”

Service and sales bundles

36. “Buy a new [Car Model] this week and get free oil changes for 12 months.”

37. “Exciting news! Drive home a [Car Model] and enjoy 20% off all service appointments for the first year.”

38. “Every new vehicle purchase now gets you a free maintenance package. Drop us a text and we’ll tell you how!”

Inventory clearance or end-of-quarter push

39. “Clearance event: All 2024 models must go! Save up to [$Amount] before month-end.”

40. “End-of-quarter sale: Extra discounts on every vehicle in stock.”

41. “We’re making room for new arrivals. Huge savings on outgoing [Model Year] cars.”

Special event invitations

Beyond one-on-one appointments, dealerships can drive traffic with group events like launch parties, showroom previews, or other special days. These texts work well for creating excitement and urgency while keeping messages personal.

Launch parties and previews

42. “Join us this Saturday for the launch of the all-new [Car Model]. Exclusive first look + test drives available!”

43. “You’re invited to our VIP preview of the [Car Model] at [Dealership]. RSVP with YES to secure your spot.”

44. “Be among the first to experience the [Car Model] at our launch event. Limited spots available: Reply JOIN.”

Open days and community events

45. “Stop by [Dealership] this weekend for our Open Day! Free inspections, test drives, and exclusive offers.”

46. “Special event this week: Meet our team, check out the latest models, and enjoy refreshments at [Dealership].”

Financing and paperwork updates

Financing updates and paperwork reminders are some of the most critical texts a dealership can send. These messages often determine whether a deal moves forward smoothly or stalls because of delays.

Clear, timely communication reassures buyers and keeps the sales process on track. With Messente, your dealership can rely on real-time, high-deliverability messaging to ensure these high-value texts reach customers without disruption.

Approvals

47. “Good news! Your financing for the [Car Model] has been approved. Visit [Dealership] to finalize paperwork.”

48. “Congrats [Name], you’re pre-approved for your new [Car Model]. Reply YES to book a pickup appointment.”

Reminders

49. “We’re still waiting on your insurance documents to complete the process. Please send them today to avoid delays.”

50. “Reminder: Your financing paperwork for the [Car Model] is due by [Date]. Need some assistance? Reply HELP.”

Reassurance

51. “Your financing application is under review. We’ll notify you by SMS as soon as it’s complete.”

52. “Everything’s on track and your paperwork is being processed. No action needed right now – we’re almost done!”

Service and maintenance reminders

Service and maintenance reminders help car dealerships keep customers engaged long after the initial sale. These texts build loyalty, encourage repeat visits, and often open the door to upselling new services or even vehicles. The key is consistency and the aim to make life easier for customers and keep them coming back.

Here are some service-focused templates you can use:

53. “Hi [Name], your [Car Model] is due for its 10k mile service. Book your appointment today at [URL].”

54. “Reminder: Your tire rotation is scheduled for [Day, Time]. Reply C to confirm or R to reschedule.”

55. “Keep your car running smoothly. Schedule your annual inspection this week and get 10% off.”

56. “It’s been 6 months since your last oil change. Book now to keep your [Car Model] in top shape.”

57. “Winter’s coming! Schedule a tire check and battery test to stay safe on the road.”

58. “Don’t miss out: Free inspection with any service booked before [Date].”

59. “Hello [Name]! Your warranty requires regular servicing. Reply BOOK to reserve your slot today.”

60. “Service special: 20% off brake pads for [Car Model] owners this month. Reply INFO for details.”

With the Messente dashboard, you can automate and schedule these recurring messages, so no reminder slips through the cracks.

Loyalty and repeat business messages

Loyalty messages are a simple and thoughtful way to keep customers coming back. They strengthen long-term relationships and show buyers that they’re more than just a one-time sale to you. Surveys also give you a chance to collect feedback while keeping the conversation going.

Thank-you notes

61. “Thank you for choosing [Dealership], [Name]. We hope you love your new [Car Model]!”

62. “We appreciate your business. Enjoy your new vehicle and remember, we’re always here for service needs.”

Anniversaries

63. “Happy 1-year anniversary with your [Car Model], [Name]! Thinking about an upgrade?”

64. “It’s been 2 years since you purchased your [Car Model]. Come in for a complimentary check-up.”

Trade-ins

65. “We’re offering top value for trade-ins this month. Ready to upgrade your [Car Model]?”

66. “Hi [Name], bring in your [Current Vehicle] and receive up to [$Amount] bonus credit toward a new car.”

Surveys

67. “How was your recent service at [Dealership]? Reply 1-5 to give a star rating.”

68. “We’d love your feedback on your purchase experience. Reply SURVEY for a quick form.”

General notifications and alerts

Not every message your dealership sends out has to be a sales pitch. Sometimes, it’s simply about keeping customers informed and staying in touch with them. Casual updates help build trust by showing your customers that you care and that they can rely on you.

Weather delays

69. “Due to heavy snow, [Dealership] will open at 11 AM today. Stay safe!”

70. “Bad weather alert: Your service appointment for [Date, Time] is rescheduled. Reply R to confirm a new slot.”

Recall notices

71. “Important: Your [Car Model] may be affected by a recall. Contact us at [Number] for details.”

72. “Safety first: [Manufacturer] has issued a recall on [Part]. Schedule your repair at no cost.”

Safety campaigns

73. “Reminder: Check your tire pressure before long drives. Book a quick inspection at [Dealership].”

74. “Stay safe this winter! Free battery and brake check at [Dealership] this week. Reply BOOK to reserve.”

Customer support

Post-purchase care is a critical part of the sales journey. Customer support texts sent in this phase are a simple yet powerful way for automotive businesses to stay accessible and responsive.

Whether it’s answering questions about availability, sending directions, or providing quick updates, these messages show buyers that help is always just a text away. They also reduce call volumes while keeping communication personal and efficient.

Here are some customer support-focused car sales text message templates:

75. “Hi [Name], yes, the [Car Model] is still in stock. Would you like me to hold it for you?”

76. “Thanks for reaching out! Our dealership is open until 7 PM today. Can we expect you?”

77. “Need directions? Here’s our Google Maps link: [URL].”

78. “Your service request has been received. A member of our team will confirm shortly.”

79. “We’re checking the availability of the [Car Model] right now. We’ll update you in a few minutes.”

80. “Your question has been forwarded to our finance team. Expect a reply shortly.”

81. “Hi [Name], we’ve scheduled your appointment for [Date, Time]. Reply C to confirm.”

82. “Thank you for contacting [Dealership]. We’ll get back to you within the next hour.”

Automate your car dealership’s text campaigns with Messente

When you’re running text message campaigns across leads, test drives, service reminders, and promotions, sending the right message at the right time matters a lot. And that’s where you need to rely on scheduling and automation.

With Messente, you can turn repetitive SMS workflows into automated routines that free up your resources. For example, via the dashboard, you can easily set up schedule-based or recurring campaigns, such as monthly service reminders or seasonal promotions, without relying on IT.

For dealerships sending 50,000+ messages per month (or more), the API opens up powerful automation possibilities. Here’s an example of how it might go for you:

1. Define trigger rules in your CRM, such as inquiry received, paperwork completed, or test-drive booked.

2. Use Messente to handle the rest, such as sending personalized messages, logging delivery statuses, and adapting campaigns for time zones.

The combination of simplicity, ease of use, and scalability offered by Messente ensures your text campaigns always hit the target with minimal manual effort.

Wrapping up: Turning templates into sales with Messente

Text-based outreach is absolutely essential for modern car dealerships. By leveraging our extensive collection of copy-and-paste templates, from lead nurturing to service reminders, you can engage buyers at every step of their purchasing journey. And with Messente’s industry-leading delivery rates, powerful analytics, and responsive support, your texts can become high-impact revenue drivers.